Mamelodi Sundowns is set to face Al-Hilal Omdurman in Rwanda this Friday in the CAF Champions League group-stage clash, riding high after a hard-earned Betway Premiership victory earlier in the week.

The continental encounter comes on the back of Sundowns’ 2–0 win over Sekhukhune United at the Peter Mokaba Stadium on Tuesday night, a result that saw the Tshwane side extend their lead at the top of the domestic standings.

The Brazilians went into the Sekhukhune clash knowing the importance of maintaining momentum, especially with a demanding schedule ahead.

Speaking before the match, midfielder Teboho Mokoena stressed the need for focus and consistency, saying the team was eager to build confidence ahead of the Champions League fixture.

He said morale was key as the side prepared for Friday’s test.

“We’re excited for the game. It’s important for the team’s morale ahead of Friday’s Champions League clash. We take it one game at a time and are aware of the log, but our focus is on playing our game,” said Mokoena.

That mindset was evident on the pitch in Polokwane, where Masandawana dominated possession from the opening exchanges.

Sekhukhune, content to sit deep and look for opportunities on the counter, relied heavily on their goalkeeper to keep them in the contest.

The keeper produced a string of impressive saves, first denying Brayan León in the 42nd minute before keeping out Iqraam Rayners shortly afterwards, ensuring the sides went into the break deadlocked at nil-all.

The pattern continued after the restart, with Sundowns pressing and probing while Sekhukhune defended resolutely.

León was again denied by goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner early in the second half, before the keeper produced another superb save to keep out Tashreeq Matthews in the 74th minute.

Despite the resistance, Bafana Ba Style’s persistence eventually paid off in stoppage time.

Khuliso Mudau created the breakthrough by setting up Nuno Santos, who made no mistake in putting the visitors ahead.

The result was sealed moments later when León reacted quickest to a rebound after Leaner had saved an initial effort from Peter Shalulile, firing home to make it 2–0.

The win not only strengthened Sundowns’ position at the top of the Betway Premiership table but also provided a timely confidence boost as they turn their attention to continental action.

With the focus now shifting to Rwanda, Sundowns will be looking to carry their composed and dominant approach into the CAF Champions League as they prepare to face Al Hilal in a crucial group-stage encounter.

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